EuroVelo 8

Sparkling emerald seas, kilometres of golden sand, mysterious islands, wonderful food, ancient cities…it’s not hard to find convincing reasons to travel along the Mediterranean! And what better way to do it then by bike along the roughly 5,900 km long Mediterranean Route? Admire for instance Granada’s Alhambra or Gaudi’s mind blowing architecture in Barcelona, feel the romance of Venice’s canals and Dubrovnik’s old town or pull your bike up alongside an inviting beach and just relax.

EuroVelo 8 connects many destinations that are popular tourist attractions in their own right: Barcelona, Monaco, Venice, the Croatian Coast, Cyprus – the list goes on. It is little surprise therefore that the Mediterranean Route receives more interest than any other EuroVelo route. And whilst many of it’s destinations are already internationally famous, there are still lots of undiscovered gems to be found along the way, not least in Albania and Montenegro.

Dalmatian Pelican, Greece

The majestic Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus Crispus) makes its home in these parts of the world. About 70 Dalmatian pelican pairs out of an estimated world population of 4000 pairs nest in the Ambracian Gulf lagoons, while migrating birds of all kinds recognize the lagoons as their annual resting stop during their travels. Small populations of Caretta Caretta turtles, Spotted Eagles (aquila clanga), Lesser Spotted Eagles (aquila Pomarina), Pygmy Cormorants, and Bitterns honor the estuary with their presence and transcend it to a special site.

Corinth Canal, Greece

The idea for a shortcut to save boats sailing all round the Peloponnese Peninsula was long considered by the Ancient Greeks. The first attempt to build a canal there was carried out by the tyrant Periander in the 7th century BC but he abandoned the project owing to technical difficulties. When the Romans took control of Greece, a number of different solutions were tried. For example, in AD 67, Emperor Nero ordered 6,000 slaves to dig a canal with spades. According to Pliny the Elder, the work advanced four stadia (about 5/8 kilometers). The following year Nero died, and his successor Galba abandoned the project as being too expensive. In the modern era, the idea was first seriously proposed in 1830, soon after Greece's independence from the Ottoman Empire. It was eventually reaslised in 1893 after eleven years' work.

Sečovlje salt-pans, Slovenia

The Sečovlje salt pans are today the largest of the coastal marsh wetlands (650 hectares), and at the same time, the most important Slovenian locality from the ornithological point of view. The variety of bird species in this area, from the aspect of nesting and wintering, is much larger than in any other comparable locality of its kind. The Sečovlje salts flats are the northernmost salt flats in the Mediterranean. The salt is produced in the traditional way based on a 700-year-old method that harmonizes man and nature. Over the centuries, a unique habitat has formed for halophytic plants and animals and migrating birds. The cultural heritage, which reflects centuries of work by saltmakers, is extremely rich. Copyright TIC Portorož

Lavender Fields of Provence, France

The air is rich with the scent of Lavender and all you see is vivid purple rows. You can only be in one place: Provence. Famous for these iconic fields, let your senses indulge in this haven of colour, smells and feeling. There is certainly no better way of seeing these than by bike.
Photo credit: Francois Philipp (flickr.com)

Lake Skadar, Montenegro/Albania

Montenegro shares the large freshwater Lake Skadar with neighbouring Albania. The lake – in the country’s southeast – and the surrounding areas have been a protected national park since 1983. The area is a birders' paradise, with more than 260 different species including the rare southern Dalmatian pelican and pygmy cormorant. Storks, herons, egrets, falcons and eagles are also present. The mountains are home to an abundance of wild tortoises, brilliantly coloured lizards and amphibians and even snakes. You may even catch sight of wild boar and even a wolf or two during winter time. Photo credit: FlickreviewR (flikr)

Camargue, France

The Camargue Region is one of the largest river delta's in Europe. EuroVelo skirts around the edges of the most picturesque of landscapes rich in fauna and flora. In particular, look out for the iconic white horses and pink flamingos, it is a surreal to think that you are only between two of the largest cities on the french mediterranean coast: Montpellier and Marseille.
Photo credit: Jeremy Atkinson (flickr.com)

Natural Park of Mincio, Italy

Established by the Regione Lombardia under regional law 47/84, this occupies the entire river bend from Ponti sul Mincio to Governolo in the Roncoferraro area, where the River Mincio flows into the Po.
It comprises the Riserva Naturale Orientata delle Valli del Mincio, Riserva Naturale Orientata di Castellaro Lagusello, Riserva Naturale della Vallazza, Parco delle Bertone and Riserva Naturale Orientata di Bosco Fontana.

The Maritime Alps Nature Park, Italy

The Maritime Alps Nature Park is the largest protected area in Piedmont and already figures among the largest parks in Italy. It shares a 35 km border with the French Mercantour Park and is rich in rivers, waterfalls and lakes. Moreover, the park boasts an enormous floral heritage made up of more than 2.600 different species, and, concerning fauna, there is a significant presence of marmots, hares, ermines, stone martens and chamois.

Monastic Complex San Benedetto Po, Italy

Founded in 1007 by Tedaldo of Canossa, grandfather of the celebrated Countess Matilda, on the island between the rivers Po and Lirone, the monastery played a key role in the history of monasticism via its religious, political and cultural vitality until it was suppressed by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797. The visit to the majestic complex comprises the cloisters and interiors of the Seculars and of St Simeon, the cloister of San Benedetto, the monastic refectory with a fresco by Correggio, 16C cellars containing a rich collection of decorated old farm wagons and an exhibition of archaeological finds, the Chapter House and the Museo Civico Polironeano, one of the most important ethnographic museums in Lombardy.

Pomposa Abbey, Italy

A masterpiece of Romanesque art, Pomposa Abbey can be seen from a distance with its towering campanile, which dominates the surrounding countryside like a "lighthouse" in the sea of green that surrounds it.

Patras, Greece

Patras and its region is home to various Ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine Monuments, including the Roman Odeon, the Fortress of Rio and the Fortress (castle) of Patras. The church of Saint Andrew of Patras was founded in 1908 by King George I and was inaugurated in 1974. It is dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron of the city and is near the seafront, between the areas of the new and the old port. It is the second largest temple of byzantine style in the Balkans (after the Cathedral of Saint Sava in Belgrade). The central cupola is 46 m (151 ft) tall and is the base for a 5 m (16 ft) gold-plated cross and twelve smaller ones, symbolizing Christ and the twelve apostles. A congregation of at least 5,000 can attend a sermon within the church.

Panagia Angeloktisti, Cyprus

According to local tradition, the residents of ancient Kition moved to Kiti in order to escape the Arab invasions. In Kition they decided to erect a church in honour of the Virgin (Panagia). While building the church, they realised that the foundations had moved to a different location overnight. After the miracle had occured the villagers then changed the location of the church and noticed that an army of angels was coming down at night to build it; hence the name 'Aggeloktisti' ('built by Angels').

Truffle of Alba, Italy

Piedmont means super cuisine and excellent wines.The true star of Piedmont’s cuisine is the white truffle of Alba, whose intense aroma can enhance the flavour of “plain” food like poached eggs or turn a dish of “tajarin” (fresh hand made pasta) or raw beef into something exquisite.Piedmont’s most famous white and red wines include: Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Gavi and Asti Spumante.

Gazpacho, Spain

´The fuel of the people´ - This Spanish cold soup (although you must never say in Spain that Gazpacho is a cold soup!) is a refreshing, energetic and healthy drink made of fresh tomatoes, garlic, cucumber, olive oil, Jerez vinegar, salt and water. Some people also add other vegetables: carrots, pepper or even some bread. Its origins are in Andalusia but nowadays is possible to find it in most of the supermarkets around the world. Cycling along EuroVelo 8, stop along the route and try a home made fresh gazpacho andaluz. Photo credit: Ignacio Palomo Duarte (flickr)

El Bulli, Spain

Run by the famous international cheff Ferran Adria, this creativity center was opened in 2014. The site, associated with molecular gastronomy became an international reference when was awarded with three Michelin stars. Spain became in the last 20 year as a reference in terms of gastronomy leadership. Enjoy the visit to Catalunya to enjoy the local food. Visiting by bike, it will be easy for you to reach great local restaurants and bars!

Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, Italy

Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are two finest cheeses, and Mantua - where they are considered a tradition - is the only Italian province that produces both of them: Parmigiano Reggiano South of Po river, while Grana Padano North of Po river. In 2006 there were 22 dairies producing Grana Padano and 25 producing Parmigiano Reggiano: they processed almost 600 millions kg milk. This means dairying is very important for local economy.Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are also central ingredients in Mantua cookery; still, they are extremely appreciated by gourmets, who can recognize the flavour of each of them.A centuries-old tradition gave those cheeses round a precise size and weight - this last one is about 35 kg. Still, the more they mature, the better they may taste. You can grate them over pasta or soup to enrich its flavour. But you might also finish your meal with a small piece of Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano and mostarda - a typical kind of sauce made of pickled candied fruit in a spicy syrup

Lemon of Menton, France

One of the symbols of the region, Menton lemons differ slightly from their Italian, Spanish or Corsican cousins. Every year a lemon festival is held in honour of the special fruit. To protect this local botanical heritage, specimens of the lemon tree are kept within the citrus collection of the garden of Carnoles Palace. Copyright Flickr alasar

Mediterranean cuisine, Slovenia

The attractiveness of the Slovene seaside, this northernmost end of the Mediterranean, was sung of by many poets, inspired by the Istrian hills, the sea, the salt-pans, the karst and its stone-house villages...The coast, with its abundant vegetation, offers a wealth of culinary experiences, with fresh herbs and fish specialties. In the Istrian culinary tradition the meals are most often cooked and less often fried. Key ingredients include indigenous, locally grown vegetables, herbs and spices. These are mostly mild in taste, but chefs often use the varieties that grow in the wild. Istrian cuisine is characterized by fish and poultry dishes. The most important ingredients are without a doubt the local olive oil and wine. Oil, wine and sea salt produced on the Slovenian coast are world renown products today. Copyright TIC Portorož

La Morra, Italy

La Morra is a small village in the hilly region of Langhe which is famous for its panoramic views. From there, you can see across the rolling hills of vineyards and on a clear day you can see all the way to the snow-capped Alps. While you're there be sure to try out the local Barbaresco and Barolo wines: "the king of wines and the wine of kings".
Photo by BORGHY52 (flickr.com)

Sabbioneta, the widspread museum, Italy

Sabbioneta was created for Duke Vespasiano Gonzaga in the second half of the 16C and is an extraordinary example of a constructed ideal town, 'a dream turned into stone'. A model of Renaissance urban planning, the town is surrounded by mighty star-shaped walls and has four monumental buildings that belonged to the Prince: Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Giardino, Galleria degli Antichi and Teatro all’Antica. Added to these is a fine Synagogue, in the old Jewish quarter, testimony to a significant cultural tradition and along an excellent historic-artistic route.

Grasse, France

Grasse is known as the "capital of flowers and perfumes." In the eighteenth century the perfume, which replaced the tannery, is booming. In the nineteenth century, the flower crops and manufacture of perfumes Grasse give international fame. The opening of the new International Perfume Museum in 2008 is the historical witness, heritage and culture of this industry.
Photo credit: Ondablv (flickr.com)

Jardines del Turia, Spain

The Turai river used to flow through the centre of Valencia. Following a particularly bad flood in 1957, the river was rerouted around the city and the river bed was made into a path. It make for a thoroughly enjoyable experience, cycling through the city in one huge garden which is overlooked by magnificently majestic bridges. The experience culminates at the 'Ciudad de las Ciencias', where water meets futuristic architecture to quite impressive effect.
Photo credit: Juanedc (flickr.com)

Uljanik shipyard, Croatia

Pula’s Uljanik shipyard is one of the oldest still in operation today. In 2000 the city began considering relocating the shipyard to free up area for tourism. A Croatian lighting designer however decided to illuminate the shipyard itself and it could be an attraction. The Lighting Giants project came alive in 2014 at Visualia, a festival of digital art and lighting design. The eight cranes at Uljanik are illuminated every night in different colours. Pula also has a spectacular Roman amphitheatre, the Pula Arena also serves as a venue for many concerts. Photo credit: Miro onoff (flickr)

Jean Cocteau Museum, France

Located at the foot of the old town of Menton, facing the covered market and near the sea front, the Jean Cocteau Museum Collection Severin Wunderman opened in November 2011. Inspired by the many facets of the genius Cocteau, architect Rudy Var Ricciotti chose to imagine a museum evoking a shell abandoned by the sea.
The poet's work in all its facets is presented over 2700 m², from the 1910s to the 1950s and offers visitors the exhibition of collections and temporary exhibition spaces, an educational workshop, a graphic arts firm, a space for documentary resources and a bookstore.

Turin Egyptian Museum, Italy

Turin boasts an artistic and architectonic heritage spanning from Roman times to la Belle Époque: every corner is a surprise, an encounter with art and culture thanks to its numerous art galleries, churches, palaces, opera houses, gardens and prestigious museums such as the National Museum of Cinema and the Egyptian Museum. Recently renovated, the Egyptian Museum, second only to the one in Cairo, exhibits an extraordinary collection of more than 30.000 items.

Old town centre Koper, Slovenia

Koper, one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, was developed on a rocky island with the Roman name Capris. Out of the three Slovenian coast cities (Koper, Izola, Piran), Koper has experienced the most numerous layout modifications. The reasons for that also need to be sought in the changes of various reigns and states, all of which marked the city with their specific traits and names. Koper was called Capris in Roman times, in the times of the pope Gregory I (599) Insula Capraria (“goat island”), Iustinopolis under the Byzantine Empire (between mid 6th and 8th centuries) and Caput Histriae (‘head of Istria’) by the Aquileia Patriarchs. The Venetians rendered that name into the Italian form, Capodistria. Today, Koper is both an commercial and tourist city, continuing to develop its offer in terms of seaside resorts, nautical tourism, sports and shopping. It has also become a University City. Copyright TIC Koper, foto Ubald Trnkoczy

Cape Greko, Cyprus

Cape Greco was designated as a National Forest Park in 1993. It is a relatively unspoilt area with great natural beauty which changes and offers something different each season. It is an oasis of tranquility nestled midway between the busy resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras.

Vlore, Albania

Vlorë is an Albanian town in the Adriatic coast. One of themost important economic and cultural cities in the country. Founded 26 centuries ago, it is famous for the landscapes along its cost.

The Medes Islands, Spain

The Medes Islands form an archipelago that offers some of the most spectacular and recognisable images of the Costa Brava. Made up of seven islets, the archipelago has been given natural protected area status due to the richness of its ecosystem, a large reserve of flora and fauna featuring underwater caves rich in red coral and with extensive meadows of Posidonia Oceanica, a diver's paradise! Copyright PTCBGI

Tarifa, Spain

The southest point: wind, sand and amazing people will bring you surf, virgin beaches and fun in one of the best areas of the world for enjoying water sports and amazing beaches far from the beaten track. From Tarifa, you can easily see Africa, only 14km far. Fast ferries connect Tangiers and Tarifa in 25 minutes. Enjoy cycling feeling the wind that crosses from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. Photo credit: Holger Haubold

Ferrara, Italy

Where to begin with the exquisite city of Ferrara. The Cathedral, the Este Castle, the Medieval Walls, Palazzo dei Diamanti are all more sumptuous than the last. It was a creative powerhouse during the Rennaissance period. Many great writers and painters lived here, you can retrace their steps and lives.

The Fortifications of Vauban, France

The Fortications of Vauban are 2 groups of fortified buildings and sites along the borders of France. Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban, who served as a military engineer of King Louis XIV, was the head behind the designs of these buildings. In 2008 they were added to the list of UNESCO´s World Heritage Sites. A reason to explore the French landscapes cycling along the borders exploring the towns built from scratch by Vauban.

Mantua, Italy

Mantua is a very ancient town: it has got Etruscan origins, but it flourished in the age of the Communes and, above all, during the long Gonzaga seigniory (1328-1707). The Commune and the short seigniory of Bonacolsi family left important buildings, such as Palazzo Bonacolsi, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo della Ragione, and churches such as San Lorenzo rotunda and Santa Maria del Gradaro. Palazzo Ducale – the Ducal Palace - is the main sign of the Gonzaga seigniory: it is one of the largest Italian palaces, counting about 500 rooms and several internal squares, courtyards and gardens. The other magnificent building left by the Gonzaga family in Mantua is Palazzo Te, which was built and frescoed by Giulio Romano (1525 to 1535): you will surely admire Sala dei Giganti, Amore e Psiche and Cavalli – the rooms illustrating the Fall of the Giants, the Tale of Love and Psyche and Gonzaga's horses.

Po Delta, Italy

The Po Delta Park is a huge area set in the green of centuries-old woodlands, pinewoods and green areas, studded with examples of art of supreme beauty. At 54,050 hectares, it is the biggest of Italy’s regional parks. In this landscape between land and water, nature is intermingled with the works of humankind: centuries of land reclamation have created a harmonic equilibrium between preserved natural environments and those used as economic resources.

Choirokoitia Neolithic Site, Cyprus

The Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia, occupied from the 7th to the 4th millennium B.C., is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean. Its remains and the finds from the excavations there have thrown much light on the evolution of human society in this key region. Since only part of the site has been excavated, it forms an exceptional archaeological reserve for future study.

Alhambra de Granada, Spain

Perched in the Sierra Nevada facing the city of Granada, the Alhambra is an impressive sight to behold. A moorish emir first built a palace here in the 11th Century. It was later converted into the Royal Palace of Yusuf I, Sultan of Granada. The site, which was for a long time the home of squatters, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth a visit. While your there be sure to catch a Flamenco show in the caves of Sacramonte on the opposite side of the valley. Photo credit: Julian Rejas (flickr)

EuroVelo cycle tourists wishing to discover Greece's rich cultural and natural heritage by bike have a new tool at hand. Find all the information in one place on eurovelo.gr, a new website launched recently by our Greek National EuroVelo Coordinator "Cities for Cycling".